How do you make a professional looking homemade solar panel? There are a couple things that are very important if you want your solar panel to look good. If you do these things with each solar panel you build they will look quite good.

Let's start out with the cells themselves. Obviously broken cells aren't going to produce a good solar panel (please, don't ever buy broken cells); however, I use what's called "B" grade cells. They're available on ebay and they are pretty cheap. These cells may have small blemishes or small chips around the edge, but from 10 feet away you'd never know the difference. Another important thing to do is make sure your cells are connected as straight and even as you can. This one part is really what makes or breaks a nice looking panel. I use spacers so all my solar cells are evenly spaced apart as well as any straight edge to ensure that everything is lined up.

So your cells are straight what else needs to be done? Well, you should paint whatever you're using for a backing white (I use plywood and paint it white). The white will show through and it looks pretty good. You should also use clear silicone. I know it's not perfectly clear, but it's opaque enough that the white from your backing shows through. I guess you could also use white silicone and achieve the same effect.

Our cells are lined up and the spaces are white... it's starting to look pretty good. I use plexiglass for the face (because it doesn't break) and plywood for the backing. The silicone adheres the two together quite nicely; however, you're still left with unfinished edges. This is where vinyl "J" flashing comes into play. All you need to do is cut it to lenth and use adhesive silicone or a staple gun and fasten it into place. It gives the solar panel a nice finishing touch.

There you have it... the basics on how to make a professional looking solar panel. If you want to learn more about DIY renewable energy sign up for our newsletter. There's a ton of great information in it.

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